Method of Installation of Intervertebral Spacers

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are methods for implant installation and assembly between adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient. The implant has a support body and a rotatable insert therein and the support body is curved for installation between adjacent vertebral bodies transforaminally. An installation instrument is also disclosed for removable attachment to implant and engagement with the rotatable insert to selectively permit rotation between the insert and the support body. The installation instrument extends along a longitudinal tool axis and when the installation instrument is in a first position the insert is rotationally fixed with respect to the support body and when the installation instrument is in a second position the support body may rotate with respect to the insert. Methods of installing multiple implants are also disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/417,352, filed Apr. 2, 2009, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to intervertebral spacers for fusing vertebral bodies and methods of installation thereof. In particular, certain embodiments are directed to methods of installation of intervertebral spacers configured and dimensioned to be implanted transforaminally.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The vertebrate spine is the axis of the skeleton providing structural support for the other body parts. In humans, the normal spine has seven cervical, twelve thoracic and five lumbar segments. The lumbar spine sits upon the sacrum, which then attaches to the pelvis, and in turn is supported by the hip and leg bones. The bony vertebral bodies of the spine are separated by intervertebral discs, which act as joints but allow known degrees of flexion, extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation.

The typical vertebra has a thick anterior bone mass called the vertebral body, with a neural (vertebral) arch that arises from the posterior surface of the vertebral body. The centra of adjacent vertebrae are supported by intervertebral discs. Each neural arch combines with the posterior surface of the vertebral body and encloses a vertebral foramen. The vertebral foramina of adjacent vertebrae are aligned to form a vertebral canal, through which the spinal sac, cord and nerve rootlets pass. The portion of the neural arch which extends posteriorly and acts to protect the spinal cord's posterior side is known as the lamina. Projecting from the posterior region of the neural arch is the spinous process.

The intervertebral disc primarily serves as a mechanical cushion permitting controlled motion between vertebral segments of the axial skeleton. The normal disc is a unique, mixed structure, comprised of three component tissues: the nucleus pulpous (“nucleus”), the annulus fibrosus (“annulus”) and two vertebral end plates. The two vertebral end plates are composed of thin cartilage overlying a thin layer of hard, cortical bone which attaches to the spongy, richly vascular, cancellous bone of the vertebral body. The end plates thus act to attach adjacent vertebrae to the disc. In other words, a transitional zone is created by the end plates between the malleable disc and the bony vertebrae.

The spinal disc and/or vertebral bodies may be displaced or damaged due to trauma, disease, degenerative defects, or wear over an extended period of time. One result of this displacement or damage to a spinal disc or vertebral body may be chronic back pain.

A disc herniation occurs when the annulus fibers are weakened or torn and the inner tissue of the nucleus becomes permanently bulged, distended, or extruded out of its normal, internal annulus confines. The mass of a herniated or “slipped” nucleus tissue can compress a spinal nerve, resulting in leg pain, loss of muscle control, or even paralysis. Alternatively, with discal degeneration, the nucleus loses its water binding ability and deflates, as though the air had been let out of a tire. Subsequently, the height of the nucleus decreases causing the annulus to buckle in areas where the laminated plies are loosely bonded. As these overlapping laminated plies of the annulus begin to buckle and separate, either circumferential or radial annular tears may occur, which may contribute to persistent or disabling back pain. Adjacent, ancillary spinal facet joints will also be forced into an overriding position, which may create additional back pain.

Whenever the nucleus tissue is herniated or removed by surgery, the disc space will narrow and may lose much of its normal stability. In many cases, to alleviate back pain from degenerated or herniated discs, the disc is removed along with all or part of at least one neighboring vertebrae and is replaced by an implant that promotes fusion of the remaining bony anatomy.

While this treatment may help alleviate the pain once the vertebrae have been successfully fused together, there remains the possibility that the surgical procedure may not successfully or fully bring about the intended fusion. The success or failure of spinal fusion may depend upon several factors. For instance, the spacer—or implant or cage—used to fill the space left by the removed disc and bony anatomy must be sufficiently strong to support the spine under a wide range of loading conditions. The spacer should also be configured so that it is likely to remain in place once it has been positioned in the spine by the surgeon. Additionally, the material used for the spacer should be a biocompatible material and should have a configuration that promotes bony ingrowth.

As a result, the design of the implant should provide sufficient rigidity and strength to resist deformation when loading forces are applied to it. Likewise, the implant should sufficiently resist sliding or movement of the implant as a result of torsional or shearing loads. Often, these parameters lead designers to select predominantly solid structures made of bone or of radio opaque materials such as titanium.

Instrumentation and specialized tools for insertion of an intervertebral implant is yet another design parameter to consider when designing a spacer. Spinal fusion procedures can present several challenges because of the small clearances around the spacer when it is being inserted into position. For instance, the instrumentation used may securely grip the implant on opposing sides or surfaces. For example, the superior and inferior surfaces may have one or more regions in which no gripping teeth are present. Such protrusion-free zones enable the implant to be grasped and manipulated by elongate rectangular blades. Notably, these protrusion-free zones are not formed as channels cut into the surface of the implant in order to maintain the strength and integrity of the implant so that it is less prone to failure. Thus, the clearance required in order to insert the spacer must be higher than the spacer itself in order to accommodate the instrumentation. For this reason, distraction of the treated area typically is greater than the implant itself.

Similarly, when the gripping tools used to manipulate and insert the implant are on the sides of the spacer, additional clearance typically is needed in order to accommodate the added width of the insertion tool blades. Such increases in height or width of the profile of the spacer when coupled or in communication with instrumentation means that additional space is needed in order to insert the spacer. In some circumstances, providing for this additional clearance space can be difficult to achieve.

Thus, despite known devices that promote fusion of a treated area of the spine, there remains a need for spacer designs that optimize bony ingrowth, have structural rigidity to support the spine under a variety of loading conditions, and allow for insertion through a smaller profile.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective exploded view of one embodiment of an implant according to the invention;

FIG. 2 is a top view of an assembled implant of the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the implant of FIG. 2 taken along the line A-A:

FIGS. 4A-4D are perspective views of a support body of the implant of FIGS. 1-3

FIGS. 5A-5D are top, rear, side, and front views, respectively, of the support body FIGS. 1-4;

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of one embodiment of an insertion instrument according to the invention;

FIG. 7 is an assembled view of the instrument of FIG. 6 having an implant of FIG. 1 attached thereto;

FIG. 8 is an assembled view of an alternate embodiment of an instrument according to the invention;

FIGS. 9-12 are views depicting the articulation of the implant of FIG. 1 with respect to installation instruments according to the invention;

FIGS. 13-16 are views showing the placement of an implant of the invention between vertebral bodies using an instrument of the invention;

FIGS. 17-18 are side perspective views of alternative embodiments of implants;

FIGS. 19-20 are views of another method of installing intervertebral implants;

FIGS. 21-22 are side perspective views of another embodiment of an implant; and

FIGS. 23-26 are views of alternative methods of installing intervertebral implants; and

FIGS. 27-29 are views of another alternative method of installing intervertebral implants.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to implantable spacers that can be used to fuse together a treated area of the spine while restoring or maintaining the proper spacing and natural curvature of the spine. The treated area may include regions between adjacent vertebral bodies so that the height of the spacer corresponds approximately to the height of the disc. In some embodiments, the height of the spacer of may be greater than the height of a disc alone. For instance, the treated area of the spine may be prepared by the physician by removing all or part of at least one vertebral body.

As explained in greater detail below, several features of the invention allow for more efficient insertion or placement of the spacers into a desired position. Additionally, aspects of the invention also provide suitable rigidity and integrity for supporting the spine during fusion while also providing greater ability to confirm that fusion is taking place as desired.

One feature that may result in more efficient insertion or placement of embodiments of spacers according to the invention concerns how the spacers may receive instrumentation for manipulation and insertion of the spacer into its proper position. As mentioned above, conventional tooling for manipulating the spacer generally requires that there be greater clearances in the treated area than needed for the spacer alone in order to accommodate the portions of the tooling that extend beyond the surface of the spacer. In contrast, some embodiments of the present invention do not require an insertion area that is larger than the spacer. Thus, in one embodiment the spacer has one or more tooling engagement surfaces disposed on opposing surfaces of the spacer. The spacer is thereby capable of being manipulated or inserted into position by gripping the engagement surfaces with a suitable tool.

For instance, one example of a suitable gripping tool may be a device having a plurality of arms that may be selectively expanded or opened and subsequently closed or compressed onto the engagement surface. In one embodiment, the engagement surface is formed from plurality of channels formed in the spacer. In one variation, there is a channel located at each engagement surface in which the arms of the manipulating or insertion tool may be disposed to further help ensure that the tooling does not project beyond the largest cross-sectional view of the spacer when viewed along the direction in which the spacer will travel during insertion.

Once the spacer has been moved into position, it is desirable for it to have sufficient structural rigidity or integrity that the spacer does not buckle or otherwise fail under loading by the spine. In general, the spacer should be configured so that it meets requirements for axial compression, axial torsion, subsidence, and resistance to expulsion. As used herein, structural rigidity or integrity refers to the capability of the spacer to resist axial compression and axial torsion without buckling or otherwise failing.

In order to minimize the risk of failure from compressive or torsional loading, it is preferred that the spacer meets or exceeds minimum structural rigidity values. In general, it is preferred that the rigidity of the spacer exceeds the rigidity of the neighboring vertebral bodies to ensure that the spacer does not collapse or fail under loading conditions first. For instance, in one embodiment the spacer is capable of bearing axial compression loads of about 10 kN or more, while in another the spacer is capable of undergoing axial compression loading of about 15 kN or more. In general, increases in rigidity often can lead to larger bulk or size of the spacer. Thus, while the spacer should be sufficiently rigid to withstand expected loading conditions, eventually the benefits of increasing rigidity become outweighed by other disadvantages such as overall size of the spacer or its ability to provide through holes for promoting fusion. For example, in one embodiment, the spacer 30 is capable of bearing axial loads of about 30 kN or less, while in another the spacer is capable of withstanding about 25 kN or less of axial compression. Additionally, these upper and lower limits may be combined in any manner desired. For instance, a spacer of the present invention may be capable of bearing axial compression loads from about 10 kN to about 30 kN, from about 15 kN to about 25 kN, or from about 10 kN to about 25 kN.

Likewise, the spacer may be capable of resisting torsional loading at least to the degree of torsional resistance that a healthy disc could provide. In one embodiment, the spacer is capable of resisting about 1.8 Nm or more of torsional loading. In alternate embodiments, however, the spacer is capable of resisting about 40 Nm or more of torsional loading.

In addition to having structural rigidity or integrity, the spacer should be configured so that it subsides in a desired position without substantially sinking into or piercing nearby anatomy when subjected to axial loading. Different regions of the spine have different sized vertebral bodies, each of which may be subjected to different types and amounts of loading. For instance, vertebral bodies in the lumbar region of the spine are generally larger than vertebral bodies in the cervical region. Typically, the lumbar region of the spine may be subjected to approximately 450 N or more of standing trunk weight, whereas the cervical region may only be subjected to about 50 N of head weight. The larger size of the vertebral bodies in the lumbar region helps distribute the increased loading over a greater area.

The spacer also may be configured to resist threshold amounts of expulsion forces. For example, a normal disc may be capable of resisting shear stresses up to about 150 N. Therefore, the spacer may be configured to withstand at least the same degree of shear loading without moving out of its desired position. More preferably, however, the spacer is capable of withstanding even greater shear stresses. For example, the disc may be capable of withstanding about 600 N or more of shear loading, and in another embodiment it is capable of withstanding about 900 N or more. This feature of the spacer is primarily dependent on the configuration of the protrusions placed on the upper and lower surfaces of the spacer. Thus, the spacer may be configured to withstand even more shear stress, such as loading of about 1000 N or more.

The height of a spacer may be varied depending upon the height of the area of the spine that is to be treated. For this reason, a plurality of spacers having varying heights may be provided to a physician. This allows the physician to select from a variety of spacer heights during a surgical procedure. In one embodiment, the height of the window also increases as the overall height of each spacer increases, which in turn may change or alter the relationship between the area of the window and the area of the blocked by the material forming the spacer. One alternative way to describe the spacer window size is by the span or horizontal width of the window.

Fusion typically is expected to begin in the anterior region of the treated area. One reason for this may be that the anterior region may undergo more axial loading than the posterior region. The additional pressure in this region may trigger fusion to begin. Thus, the lines of sight created by the openings or windows may be positioned so that they intersect in an anterior region of the treated area.

Any biocompatible material may be used to form a spacer of the present invention. For example, suitable materials for forming spacers of the present invention may be include, but are not limited to, titanium and other surgical grade metals and metal alloys. Since metals and metal alloys generally are radio-opaque, several of the advantages of providing large openings or windows in order to view the treated area will be apparent when the spacer is made of these materials. In addition, radiolucent materials also may be used to form spacers of the present invention. For example, either all or a substantial portion of the spacer may be formed of Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) polymers or similar materials. A spacer made of PEEK or other radiolucent material may further comprise a pin disposed within the spacer that helps a physician identify the orientation of the spacer during insertion. Other materials likewise may be used to from all or part of the spacers of the present invention. For example, all or a portion of the spacer may be formed of bioresorbable materials that, over time, may be resorbed and replaced by bone.

These and other features are explained more fully in the embodiments illustrated below. It should be understood that in general the features of one embodiment also may be used in combination with features of another embodiment and that the embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Referring to FIGS. 1-5, one embodiment of a spacer or implant 10 according to the invention comprises a support body 12 and a rotatable insert 14 assembly. Support body 12 may have an arcuate or curved shape extending laterally from a proximal end portion 16 to a distal end portion 18. The distal end 18 portion may have a tapered end 20 narrowing towards the distal most end. In one embodiment, a longitudinal opening 22 may extend through implant 10 to facilitate bone growth through implant 10 and fusion when implanted. A plurality of protrusions or teeth 24 may be provided along the superior and inferior end surfaces to facilitate prevention of expulsion of implant 10 from between the adjacent vertebral bodies between which it may be implanted.

In one variation a longitudinal hole 26 may be provided to accommodate insert 14. In this regard, hole 26 may be configured and dimensioned to receive insert 14 and permit rotational movement between insert 14 and support body 12. In one variation, insert 14 has a cylindrical shape and allows the implant 10 to turn freely when desired but may be locked, fixed, or stabilized in a predetermined position by insertion tool 28. For example, the position may be locked for initial insertion by a sleeve, holder, or stabilization member. According to one embodiment, insert 14 may be captured within hole 26 of support body 12 by a circumferential rib 32 on the insert 14 that mates to a corresponding indentation shaped on the support body 12. In this regard, once assembled, insert 14 is generally constrained longitudinally with respect to support body 12. Insert 14 may have a threaded hole 34 therein extending transverse to longitudinal axis 36 to interface with insertion tool 28. An indention, marking or other alignment mechanism 37 may be aligned with hole 34 and may be provided in the superior surface of insert 14 so that a user may visually align the hole 34 with an opening in the proximal end 16 of implant 10. A slot 38 may be provided adjacent the threaded hole 34 to provide counter-torque and or stabilization to insert 14 and to facilitate threaded insertion of the insertion instrument 28 with the insert 14. In one variation, slot 38 runs generally perpendicular to threaded hole 34. As shown in FIGS. 1, 4A-D, and 5B, the proximal end portion 16 of implant 10 may have a rounded shape and may include one or more slots or grooves 40, 46 to engage insertion instrument 28 to facilitate insertion of spacer 10. In one embodiment, groove 40 extends adjacent the proximal end and extends along the interior curved wall of support body 12. Groove 40 has an opening in communication with hole 26 to allow a part of insertion tool 28 to engage threaded hole 34. For example, in one variation insertion tool 28 may include a shaft 42 with a threaded tip portion 44 to threadedly engage insert 14. As shown in FIG. 4B another slot 46 may be provided adjacent the outer curved wall of support body 12. One or more indentations 48 may be provided within groove 46 to accommodate protrusions on insertion tool to enhance gripping of the insertion tool 28 with spacer 10.

One or more openings 50 may be provided extending through the curved side walls and into the central longitudinal opening 22. Openings 50 may facilitate bony ingrowth and may provide a window through which bony fusion may be visually confirmed. As best seen in FIGS. 2-3, when implant 10 is made from radiolucent material such as PEEK, one or more radio-opaque markers 51 may be integrated into implant 10 such that the implant may be viewed and or located when using fluoroscopy.

Referring to FIG. 6, an exploded view of one embodiment of an insertion instrument 28 according to the invention is shown. Instrument 28 generally comprises an implant stabilizer 62, an insert stabilizer 64, and a central shaft 42 extending through the implant and insert stabilizers 62, 64. As explained above, central shaft 42 has a threaded distal tip portion 44 to threadedly engage insert 14. Insert stabilizer 64 may have a generally cylindrical body extending from a proximal end 66 to a distal end 68. Insert stabilizer 64 is cannulated to accommodate central shaft 42 therethrough. In one variation, distal end 68 of insert stabilizer 64 has a forked free end 70 with a pair of tongs or prongs 72 spaced apart and extending distally therefrom. The prongs 72 are configured and dimensioned to engage slot 38 of insert 14. A keyed slot 74 may be provided adjacent the distal end 68 and extending proximally therefrom. Keyed slot 74 is generally configured and dimensioned to engage and interface with a pin 76 provided in implant stabilizer 62. The proximal end 66 of insert stabilizer 64 may have an opening 78 extending transversely therethrough configured and dimensioned to receive a rotatable wheel or thumbwheel 80. Thumbwheel 80 has a central opening configured to receive central shaft 42 therethrough and a set screw 82 may extend through the thumbwheel 80 to axially and rotationally fix central shaft 42 to thumbwheel 80 so as to rotationally constrain central shaft 42 to thumbwheel 80. In this regard, in operation a surgeon utilizing the installation instrument 28 may rotate the central shaft 42 by rotating the thumbwheel 80 about axis 84. An externally threaded region 86 may be provided adjacent opening 78 to interface or otherwise engage an internally threaded stabilizer lock wheel 88.

Implant stabilizer 62 may be a generally cylindrical cannulated body extending from a proximal end 92 to a distal end 94 configured and dimensioned to extend over insert stabilizer 64. In one variation, distal end 94 of implant stabilizer 62 has a forked free end 96 with a pair of tongs or prongs 98 spaced apart and extending distally therefrom. Prongs 98 are configured and dimensioned to engage the slots or grooves 40, 46 of implant 12. A flange or shoulder 100 may be provided adjacent proximal end 92 and flange 100 may engage a slot 102 in stabilizer lock wheel 88 to constrain axial movement between the implant stabilizer 62 and stabilizer lock wheel 88 yet allow rotational movement therebetween. In this regard, as stabilizer lock wheel 88 is rotated about threaded region 86, the distal end 94 of implant stabilizer 62 may be advanced or moved along axis 84 to engage the slots 40, 46 on implant 10 so as to stabilize implant 10 with respect to prongs 98. With prongs 98 engaged with slots 40, 46, implant 10 is rigidly attached to instrument 28 and locked rotationally such that implant 10 is prevented from being rotated or articulated with respect to insertion tool axis 84. Those skilled in the art may appreciate the desirability of such a feature when, for example, the spacer may be hammered or impacted into place between adjacent vertebrae. In this regard, the surgeon user may apply axial force on the insertion tool axis without risk that such impaction will cause the spacer to rotate or articulate with respect to axis 84. If and when the surgeon user desires to allow the implant to articulate with respect to axis 84, he may disengage the implant stabilizer 62 from the implant to selectively allow the implant to articulate with respect to axis 84. In one variation, an ergonomic handle 104 may be connected to the proximal end 92 of instrument 28 to facilitate handling and/or impaction. Referring to FIG. 8, in an alternate embodiment an alternate T-shaped handle 106 may be connected to proximal end 92 of instrument 28. Those skilled in the art may appreciate that such a T-shaped handle may facilitate, among other things, enhanced visibility of the surgical site by a surgeon user.

Referring now to FIGS. 9-12, the articulatability of implant 10 with respect to installation instrument 28 is shown. As shown in FIG. 9, implant stabilizer 62 is engaged on implant 10 so as to stabilize implant 10 and/or rigidly attach to instrument 28. In this position, implant 10 is locked rotationally such that it is prevented from being rotated or articulated with respect to insertion tool axis 84. In one variation, shown in FIG. 9, implant 10 may extend in a generally axial direction along axis 84 from the end of tool 28. Referring to FIGS. 10-12, with implant stabilizer 62 disengaged from implant 10, the implant is free to rotate or articulate with respect to axis 84 of insertion tool 28. In one variation, implant 10 may articulate or rotate between about 0 degrees (FIG. 10) and about 90 degrees (FIG. 12).

Referring now to FIGS. 13-16, one embodiment of a method of using implant 10 in conjunction with inserter 28 is shown. In a first step, the implant 10 may be threadedly engaged onto insertion tool 28 using thumbwheel 80 to rotate central shaft 42 and threadedly engage the threaded distal tip portion 44 into threaded hole 34 of insert 14. The stabilizer lock 88 may then be turned clockwise to engage implant stabilizer prongs 98 with slots 40, 46 on implant 10 to prevent implant 10 from rotating about insertion tool axis 84. In this position, with the implant 10 fixed or stabilized with respect to the insertion instrument 28, the insertion tool 28 may be impacted from the proximal end. For instance according to one method shown in FIG. 13, a surgeon may impact the proximal end of handle 104 to achieve a desired positioning or depth between adjacent vertebral bodies using, for example, a transforaminal approach. As explained above, the surgeon user may apply axial force on the insertion tool axis without risk that such impaction will cause the implant to rotate with respect to axis 84. The tapered distal end 20 of implant 10 may facilitate distraction separation or spreading apart of the adjacent vertebral bodies. A counter lock may be provided on the installation instrument to prevent stabilizer lock 88 from moving and to prevent implant stabilizer 62 from disengaging from implant 10 during impaction.

Referring to FIG. 14, once impacted to a desired position, the implant 10 may be released from the implant stabilizer 62 by turning the stabilizer lock counterclockwise and retracting stabilizer 62 axially to disengage prongs 98 from slots 40, 46. With the implant stabilizer 62 released the implant 10 is free to articulate at the end of insertion tool 28. In this regard, in this position support body 12 may rotate about insert 14 and a central rotation axis 36 extending through the center of insert 14. Referring to FIGS. 15-16, once the stabilizer 62 is released a surgeon may impact the instrument further to advance the implant 10 into the intervertebral space. In this regard, the outer sidewall of distal end 16 of support body 12 is configured and dimensioned to contact or otherwise engage the epiphyseal ring on an anterior portion of a vertebral disc to provide force on the distal end 16 causing implant 10 to rotate in-situ in the intervertebral space about the axis of rotation 36. In certain methods, such rotation may accompany axial translation of axis 36 toward the anterior portion of the disc space, for example, upon impaction of installation instrument 28. Referring to FIG. 16, according to one method, implant 10 may reach a desired or final installation or implantation position wherein implant 10 is positioned adjacent the epiphyseal ring along the anterior portion of the disc space. Once the desired or final installation position of implant 10 is reached, the insertion instrument 28 may be released from implant 10 by unthreading the connection between insertion instrument 28 and insert 14 and insertion instrument 28 may be removed from the body. In this regard, implant 10 and insert 14 are configured and dimensioned to remain implanted in the patient.

Referring to FIGS. 17-18, alternative embodiments of implants 110 and 120 according to the invention are shown.

Referring now to FIGS. 19-20, another embodiment of a method of installing implants 10 is shown. In this embodiment, one or more additional implants 10 may be implanted in the intervertebral space. Referring to FIG. 19, after an initial or first implant 10 is implanted as described above, a second implant 130 may be additionally installed in the intervertebral space. In this regard, second implant 130 is generally similar to implant 10 and may be inserted utilizing insertion instrument 28 and may be inserted in a similar manner to implant 10, as described above. According to one variation, second implant 130 may be selected to have a smaller height and/or length than first implant 10 to accommodate the anatomy of the intervertebral space. For example, in one embodiment, first implant 10 may be taller than second implant 130 such that when implants 10, 130 are installed in the intervertebral space, the adjacent vertebral bodies may be angled with respect to each other and/or lordosis may be maintained.

Second implant 130 may be installed in a similar fashion to first implant 10, with insertion tool 28. The second implant 130 may installed via the same opening in the disc space through which the first implant 10 was installed and implant 130 may be initially rotationally fixed to insertion tool 28 as with first implant 10 to facilitate impaction. Once impacted to a desired position, the implant 130 may be released from the implant stabilizer 62 by turning the stabilizer lock counterclockwise and retracting stabilizer 62 axially to disengage prongs 98 from slots 40, 46. As with first implant 10, when implant stabilizer 62 is released, the implant 130 is free to articulate at the end of insertion tool 28 and a surgeon may impact the instrument further to advance the implant 130 into the intervertebral space. In this regard, the outer sidewall of distal end 16 of support body 12 of second implant 130 is configured and dimensioned to contact or otherwise engage the inner sidewall of first implant 10 to provide force on the distal end 16 of second implant 130 causing it to rotate in-situ in the intervertebral space about the axis of rotation 36. As with first implant 10, such rotation may accompany axial translation of axis 36 toward the anterior portion of the disc space, for example, upon impaction of installation instrument 28. Referring to FIG. 20, according to one method, implant 130 may reach a desired or final installation or implantation position wherein implant 130 is positioned adjacent the first implant 10 along the anterior portion of the disc space. According to one variation, second implant 130 may be positioned in a nested, cupped, or spooned relation to first implant 10 and second implant 130 may contact first implant 10. In one variation, implants 10, 130 may resemble bunched bananas with conforming curved or arcuate shapes. Once the desired or final installation position of second implant 130 is reached, the insertion instrument 28 may be released from implant 130 by unthreading the connection between insertion instrument 28 and insert 14 and insertion instrument 28 may be removed from the body. In another embodiment, additional implant(s) may be subsequently installed as desired.

Referring to FIGS. 21-22, an alternative implant 140 is shown. Implant 140 is similar to implant 10 described above, except an elongate slot 142 may be provided along at least a portion of an interior side and an outwardly protruding flange 144 may be provided along at least a portion of the exterior side. In this regard, flange 144 need not extend the entire length of slot 142, however the profile is generally configured and dimensioned to fit within slot 142 when multiple implants 140 are implanted adjacent to one another. In this regard, when a plurality of implants 140 are implanted in a manner as depicted in FIG. 20, described above, the implants interlock, intermesh, or otherwise engage to form a unit. According to one variation, flange and slot may have an angled or dovetail profile, such that when flange 144 engages slot 142 of an adjacent implant 140, the implants are prevented from separating apart posteriorly. In another variation, slot 142 may have a wider or funneled opening adjacent the proximal end to guide or assist a leading portion of a flange 144 of a subsequently installed implant. In another variation, the exterior portion may comprise slot 142 and interior portion may comprise flange 144. In still other embodiments, alternate methods may be utilized to fix or otherwise engage adjacent implants to form a unitary implant once installed. In one exemplary embodiment, a clip or pin may extend between adjacent implants.

Referring now to FIG. 23, in another embodiment, second implant 130 may be spaced posteriorly within the intervertebral space from a first implant 10 such that a gap, opening, or space 138 may be provided therebetween. According to one variation, space 138 may be at least partially filled or packed with bone growth promoting material. Any known bone growth promoting material may be utilized, including but not limited to, allograft or autograft bone, demineralized bone, bone putties, bone morphogenic protein, and the like. Those skilled in the art may appreciate that at least one advantage of having a second implant 130 spaced posteriorly from first implant 10, is that it provides a barrier to minimize or prevent migration of bone growth promoting material in the posterior direction into the spinal canal. In this regard, the material implanted in the space 138 between implants 10, 130 is sandwiched therebetween.

Referring to FIGS. 24-25, in another embodiment, an alternative implant 150 may be provided in place of or in addition to implants 10, 130. Implant 150 may have a general crescent or arcuate shape similar to implant 10, however in this variation implant 150 may be made from one or more bioresorbable or polymer materials. In this regard, exemplary materials that may be utilized are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/552,244, entitled “Porous and Non-porous Materials for Tissue Grafting and Repair,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In another variation, implant 150 may have a matrix-like structure and may having wicking or sponge-like qualities such that implant 150 may be soaked, submerged, and/or coated with a drug and/or bone morphogenic protein. According to one variation, shown in FIG. 24, implant 150 may be generally nestingly placed adjacent a first implant 10 within the intervertebral space. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 25, implant 150 may be sandwiched between implants 10, 130.

Referring to FIG. 26, in another exemplary configuration, first and second implants 10, 130 may be implanted along the periphery of an intervertebral space. In this regard, according to one method, a first implant 10 may be installed according to the methods disclosed above and second implant 130 may be implanted directly behind a posterior portion of implant 10 such that as second implant 130 is installed, first implant 10 is pushed or translated around the periphery of the intervertebral space toward the contralateral side. In another variation, one or more additional implants 160 may be implanted in the interior space 162 surrounded by implants 10, 130. Implant 160 may have a smaller or different shape, or in the alternative may be similar to implant 150 described above. In yet another embodiment, implant 160 may be spaced posteriorly from implants 10, 130 and space 162 may be filled with bone growth promotion material, in a similar manner as described above. In this regard, with three implants implanted within the intervertebral space in a triangular configuration, the bone growth promotion material is substantially surrounded to minimize and/or prevent outward migration beyond the implants.

Referring to FIGS. 27-29, another method of installing multiple implants 170, 180 is shown. In this embodiment, multiple implants 170, 180 may be installed through a single transforaminal or postero-lateral opening in the disc space and implants 170, 180 may be positioned on opposing lateral portions of the disc space, similar to a bilateral posterior interbody fusion or PLIF placement. Implant 170 is substantially similar to implant 10 described above and implant 170 may be attached to an installation instrument 28 in a similar manner as described above. As with implant 10 described above, implant 170 may be selectably rigidly attached to instrument 28 in a first position and may be freely articulatable with respect instrument 28 in a second position. According to one variation, implant 170 may be installed through a transforaminal approach to a location on the contralateral or opposite side of the disc space from which the implant 170 enters the disc space. As described above with respect to implant 10, implant 170 may be rigidly attached to instrument 28 such that rotation is prevented and impacted to a desired position in the disc space. Once a desired position is attained, the implant 170 may be released from the implant stabilizer 62 such that the implant 170 is free to articulate at the end of insertion tool 28. As best seen in FIG. 27, implant 170 may be implanted in a general direction across the disc space to reach the contralateral or opposite side and implant 170 may articulate in a reverse direction than shown in FIG. 19 to facilitate alignment adjacent the contralateral portion of the disc space. Referring to FIG. 28, an additional implant 180 may be subsequently installed in the near lateral portion of the disc space. Implant 180 may be of any known size and/or shape configured to be implanted within the disc space and in one exemplary embodiment, implant 180 has a generally elongate annular shape. In this embodiment, implant 180 may be detachably and rigidly attached to instrument 182, however, implant 180 is not articulatably attached to instrument 182. In alternate embodiments however, implant 180 may be additionally configured to be articulatably attached to an installation instrument. According to one method, implant 180 may be installed through the same opening in the disc space through which implant 170 was installed. In one variation, a generally straight posterior approach may be used to install implant 180, although any range of transforaminal or postero-lateral approaches may be used. Referring to FIG. 28, implant 180 may be rigidly attached to instrument 182 such that rotation is prevented and impacted to a desired position in the disc space. Once a desired position is attained, the implant 180 may be released from the insertion tool 28 and implant 180 may remain in the patient. As best seen in FIG. 28, implant 180 may be implanted in a general straight direction to reach a near side portion of the disc space. Referring to FIG. 29, an exemplary final implantation position is shown with implants 170, 180 generally positioned on opposing lateral portions of the disc space.

While it is apparent that the invention disclosed herein is well calculated to fulfill the objects stated above, it will be appreciated that numerous modifications and embodiments may be devised by those skilled in the art. 

1. A method for implant installation between adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient, comprising the steps of: assembling a first implant onto a first insertion instrument; assembling a second implant onto a second insertion instrument; each of the implants having a support body, the support body having a curved shape extending laterally from a proximal end portion to a distal end portion, each insertion instrument extending along a longitudinal tool axis; moving the first instrument to a first position wherein the first implant is rotationally fixed with respect to the longitudinal tool axis; placing the first implant into a patient through a postero-lateral approach to locate the implant between adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient; moving the first instrument to a second position wherein the support body of the first implant is rotatable with respect to the tool axis; moving the first instrument to cause the first implant to rotate with respect to the longitudinal tool axis; disassembling the first instrument from the first implant and removing the first instrument from the patient; moving the second instrument to a first position wherein the second implant is rotationally fixed with respect to the longitudinal tool axis; placing the second implant into a patient through a postero-lateral approach to locate the implant between adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient; moving the second instrument to a second position wherein the support body of the second implant is rotatable with respect to the tool axis; moving the second instrument to cause the second implant to rotate with respect to the longitudinal tool axis; and disassembling the second instrument from the second implant and removing the second instrument from the patient.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein each implant has a tapered distal end, wherein the tapered distal end of each of the implants separates the adjacent vertebral bodies when the installation instrument is in a first position and the proximal end of the installation instrument is impacted.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a lock is provided on the installation instrument to prevent the instrument from disengaging from the implant.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein when each of the insertion instruments is in the first position a sleeve of the installation instrument engages a slot formed in the proximal portion of the support body and the support body is rigidly attached to the sleeve.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein each implant has an elongate rotational insert provided therein, the insert rotatable about a central longitudinal axis.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the insert defines a threaded hole extending transverse to the central longitudinal axis to engage with an installation instrument.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the proximal end portion of each of the implants has a rounded shape and includes one or more grooves on lateral sides thereof to engage the insertion instrument and wherein the grooves are in communication with a longitudinal opening in the implants to allow a part of the insertion instrument to engage the rotational insert.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the insertion instruments includes a central shaft having a threaded tip portion for threaded engagement with the implant.
 9. A method for implant installation between adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient, comprising the steps of: assembling a first implant onto a first insertion instrument; assembling a second implant onto a second insertion instrument; each of the implants having a support body and a rotatable insert therein, the support body having a curved shape extending laterally from a proximal end portion to a distal end portion, the distal end portion having a taper narrowing towards a distal most end; wherein the support body defines an elongate slot provided along at least a portion of an interior curved surface and an outwardly projecting flange along at least a portion of an exterior curved surface, wherein the flange is configured and dimensioned to fit within the slot; wherein the support body defines a longitudinal opening adjacent the proximal end to accommodate the rotatable insert therein and wherein the insert is rotatable about a central longitudinal axis within the longitudinal opening to permit the support body to rotate about the insert and the central longitudinal axis; each insertion instrument extending along a longitudinal tool axis; moving the first instrument to a first position wherein the first implant is rotationally fixed with respect to the longitudinal tool axis; placing the first implant into a patient through a postero-lateral approach to locate the implant between adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient; moving the first instrument to a second position wherein the support body of the first implant is rotatable with respect to the insert of the first implant; moving the first instrument to cause the first implant to rotate with respect to the longitudinal tool axis; disassembling the first instrument from the first implant and removing the first instrument from the patient; placing the second implant into a patient through a postero-lateral approach to locate the implant between adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient; moving the second instrument to cause the flange of the second implant to engage the slot of the first implant; and disassembling the second instrument from the second implant and removing the second instrument from the patient.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the slot and flange have a complimentary profile.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the slot and flange have a dovetail profile.
 12. The method of claim 9, wherein when the flange of the second implant engages the slot of the first implant, the first and second implants are constrained from relative movement in at least one direction.
 13. The method of claim 9, further comprising placing a third implant into a patient through a postero-lateral approach to locate the implant between adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient and moving the third implant to engage the slot of the second implant.
 14. The method of claim 9, wherein the implants and inserts remain implanted in the patient.
 15. The method of claim 9, wherein the insert defines a threaded hole extending transverse to the central longitudinal axis to engage with an installation instrument.
 16. The method of claim 9, wherein each of the insertion instruments includes a central shaft having a threaded tip portion for threaded engagement with the rotatable insert.
 17. A method for implant installation between adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient, comprising the steps of: assembling a first implant onto a first insertion instrument, the first implants having a support body, the support body having a curved shape extending laterally from a proximal end portion to a distal end portion, the first insertion instrument extending along a longitudinal tool axis; moving the first instrument to a first position wherein the first implant is rotationally fixed with respect to the longitudinal tool axis; placing the first implant in the interdiscal space defined between adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient through a first opening at a postero-lateral position to an opposite lateral region of the disc space; moving the first instrument to a second position wherein the support body of the first implant is rotatable with respect to the tool axis; moving the first instrument to cause the first implant to rotate with respect to the longitudinal tool axis; disassembling the first instrument from the first implant and removing the first instrument from the patient; assembling a second implant onto a second insertion instrument, the second implant having a support body extending from a proximal end portion to a distal end portion, the second insertion instrument extending along a longitudinal tool axis; moving the second instrument to a first position wherein the second implant is rigidly attached and rotationally fixed with respect to the longitudinal tool axis; placing the second implant in the interdiscal space defined between adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient through the first opening to an adjacent lateral region of the disc space; and disassembling the second instrument from the second implant and removing the second instrument from the patient.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein when each of the insertion instruments is in the first position a sleeve of the installation instrument engages a slot formed in the proximal portion of the support body and the support body is rigidly attached to the support body.
 19. The method of claim 1, wherein the proximal end portion of each of the implants has a rounded shape and includes one or more grooves on lateral sides thereof to engage the insertion instrument. 